Virgin River has quietly become one of Netflix’s most beloved dramas, drawing audiences into the cozy yet complicated lives of its small-town residents. While much of the show centers on Mel Monroe’s (Alexandra Breckenridge) journey toward healing and love, one character has emerged as a surprising standout—Muriel Saint Claire, played by Canadian actress Teryl Rothery.
Initially introduced as the stylish, somewhat flirtatious rival to Mayor Hope McCrea (Annette O’Toole), Muriel has undergone a remarkable evolution since her debut. And in Season 5, she’s more compelling—and more popular—than ever.
But as Muriel becomes a bigger presence in Virgin River’s close-knit community, one question continues to pop up among fans: how old is she supposed to be?
A Star Turn in a Small Town
Muriel isn’t your average retiree. A former movie actress with a flair for fashion, sharp wit, and unexpected tenderness, she’s brought both glamour and grit to the town’s knitting circle. Her early appearances painted her as something of a foil to Hope—especially when it came to their competing interests and strong personalities—but their rivalry eventually softened, leading to an unlikely but genuine friendship.
Season 5 has taken Muriel in an exciting new direction, as she develops a romantic relationship with the town’s charming new doctor, Cameron Hayek (Mark Ghanimé). Their bond has sparked interest—and plenty of speculation—from fans eager to see where this surprising couple might go.
So, How Old Is Muriel?
According to author Robyn Carr’s official website, Muriel is 56 years old as of Second Chance Pass, the fifth book in the Virgin River novel series. While the Netflix adaptation doesn’t spell out exact ages, the series seems to stay relatively close to this timeline.
The actress who portrays Muriel, Teryl Rothery, is currently 60 years old and brings decades of experience to the role. Viewers may recognize her from sci-fi cult favorites like Stargate SG-1, where she played Dr. Janet Fraiser, or from appearances in Arrow and Nancy Drew. Her presence on Virgin River adds a sense of wisdom and nuance to the series—something fans have come to love about Muriel’s increasingly layered storyline.
From Rival to Role Model
What makes Muriel such a fan-favorite isn’t just her charisma or unexpected romance with Cameron—it’s how she represents reinvention. In a show full of second chances and emotional healing, Muriel’s journey is a quiet triumph. She’s proof that love, growth, and new beginnings aren’t limited by age.
As Virgin River continues to unfold, one thing’s clear: Muriel Saint Claire isn’t just a supporting character anymore. She’s the heart of a storyline that’s as refreshing as it is real.
